Buttonwillow Civil War Dinner Theater in Whitwell, Tenn., specializes in bringing to life the complexities of the American Civil War, which was fought between the Union and the Confederacy from 1861 to 1865. The theater’s two-person play, “Granddaddy’s Watch,” is the story of a brother and sister from East Tennessee who meet on the battlefield in 1864. He is a diehard Unionist, a West Point graduate and career officer of 31 years. His sister is a Confederate sympathizer who is secretly running medicine to their cousins across the line.

The production takes place in a dining hall that replicates 19th-century American life—even down to the food. The audience is served authentic recipes from the cookbook of Varina Davis, wife of Confederate President Jefferson Davis.

“Granddaddy’s Watch” is a study in culture and society, as well as an effort to tell the real story of the Civil War. The family-friendly production – based on actual events gleaned from hundreds of diaries and memoirs - is best-suited for fourth-grade students and older.

Buttonwillow Civil War Theater is located at 1060 Main Street in Whitwell, Tennessee. The theater is open year-round for lunch and dinner, including a special Christmas performance. All seats are reserved. Call 423-658-7478 for show times and rates.

Seasons Open: The theater is open year-round.

Hours Open: The theater is open for lunch and dinner in the Central Time Zone.

Fees: Reservations required. Call 423-658-7478 for show times and rates.